Borno Governor Bans Alcohol Sales, Moves to Curb Criminality
The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has officially banned the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages across the state as part of a broader effort to tackle rising insecurity and antisocial behaviour.
The announcement was made on Tuesday during the inauguration of a reconstituted committee tasked with revoking illegal hotels, brothels, shanties, and criminal hideouts. The event took place at the Council Chambers of the Government House in Maiduguri.
According to Governor Zulum, the move is in response to the increasing prevalence of violent clashes among rival groups, cult activities, prostitution, drug abuse, thuggery, and theft—factors he said have resulted in the loss of lives and property in Maiduguri and surrounding communities.
“This administration will not tolerate any act that promotes criminality or moral decay. We are committed to restoring order and protecting the lives of our citizens,” Zulum said.
The governor also re-empowered the multi-agency committee to intensify crackdowns on illegal structures believed to be harbouring criminals and to enforce the new ban on alcohol sales.
The development has sparked mixed reactions, with some residents and human rights advocates raising concerns about the implications for personal freedoms and business operations, while others welcomed the measure as necessary for public safety.
Sources: Borno State Government House Press Briefing, Statements from Governor Babagana Zulum, Local media coverage (Daily Trust, Channels )
